Carvalho, R. A. de [UNESP]Grosso, C. R. F.2014-05-202014-05-202006-03-01Brazilian Journal of Chemical Engineering. Brazilian Society of Chemical Engineering, v. 23, n. 1, p. 45-53, 2006.0104-6632http://hdl.handle.net/11449/29927Edible and/or biodegradable films usually have limited water vapor barriers, making it difficult to use them. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of a chemical reticulation treatment with formaldehyde and glyoxal on the mechanical properties, water vapor permeability, solubility and color parameters of gelatin-based films. Formaldehyde and glyoxal were added to the filmogenic solution in concentrations ranging from 3.8 to 8.8 mmoles/100 mL of filmogenic solution and 6.3 to 26.3 mmoles/100 mL of filmogenic solution, respectively. The treatments caused a reduction in permeability to water vapor and in solubility. Only the treatment with formaldehyde caused a significant increase in rupture tension for concentrations above 6.3 mmoles/100 mL of filmogenic solution. Scanning electron microscopy indicated a loss of matrix orientation due to the chemical reticulation treatment.45-53engFilms gelatin formaldehyde glyoxalArtigo10.1590/S0104-66322006000100006S0104-66322006000100006Acesso abertoS0104-66322006000100006.pdf